Grosse Pointe, MI The Ranch House

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Tips & Advice

Can interior designers work on every type of room/space?

Interior designers can generally work on every type of room, but one should not assume that all of them can work on every type of space. More complicated projects--for example those in buildings with historic preservation strictures, or those that are going for sustainability certifications--will be suited to interior designers with specific expertise. Also, interior designers that have experience in a certain type of project may not want to take on projects that are outside their expertise. For example, an interior designer who has only worked on commercial projects may not want to do a small private home.

Do interior designers work in a particular style or are they versatile?

Every interior designer has their own style, but some designers are more versatile than others. Some really do specialize in functionality and code compliance, whereas others are more focused on aesthetics. Interior decorators are completely focused on visual impact, and therefore should be reviewed and selected based on how well their style is a match for the client’s tastes.

What is full-service interior design?

Full-service interior design starts with an assessment of a site and the client’s long-term needs for that space. It encompasses concept design, floor plans and lighting plans, providing project specifications to contractors, supervising contractor negotiations and installations, applying for permits, and shopping for all the materials and pieces for the project. On top of this, there are the “decorator” deliverables, i.e. creating the aesthetic of the space, selecting wall colors/covers and furniture pieces, purchasing products and installing them.

What is the role of an interior designer?

An interior designer may come into a development project very early on, working with the developer and architect from the pre-construction phase. They may be the one to design floor plans, decide where to place interior walls, and supervise contractors that are installing elements of the build. They often work on commercial projects, although many of them work on residential projects. Interior designers can “switch hats” and do interior decoration, which means they are only focused on the aesthetic elements and visual components of a residence.

What should an interior designer ask a client before accepting or starting a project?

An interior designer or interior decorator should ask a potential client what the scope of the project is, what the projected budget is, what payment structure the client wants, and what the timeline for the project is. Also, they should be asking whether the client has any samples of other projects they like, and would like to use as a guideline. They could also ask what the client’s budget for furniture/accessories/art is, since that in many cases is a separate amount from the budget for the designer’s labor.
If an interior designer is being interviewed early into a new build or a renovation project, they might ask questions to determine whether they can collaborate with architects and contractors from early on, to execute their vision for the space. If that is not in line with a client’s wishes, the client can then say that the project scope is for interior design only.

What are the most important interview questions to ask an interior designer?

The most important interview questions are those that determine whether an interior designer is even right for your project, whether they have experience in the area you need e, and whether their service is within your budget. If your project is residential, you can probably use an interior decorator, not an interior designer. This is because interior designers generally work on commercial projects or large residential projects.
If it is important to find someone who has a license and works under governmental regulations, you’ll want an interior designer who doubles as a decorator. Start by asking whether the candidate is licensed and formally trained. If yes, then ask whether your project is the type of project they usually work on, what their professional affiliations are, and whether your budget is acceptable. If that is a fit, ask to see samples of past projects, as well as a couple of references. It might turn out that a residential project is not something they handle – in which case you might want to ask for a referral to someone they trust.
If the candidate is not licensed/university accredited, this may not preclude them from working on your project. Ask to see a portfolio of past projects, and, if you like them, ask them about their process for completing these projects. Ask for references. Find out whether they’d be willing to set up a payment structure that protects you.

How long does it usually take to complete an interior design project?

The length of time to complete an interior design project varies tremendously according to the scope of the project. Small interior decorating projects, such as one or two rooms in a home, could potentially be completed within a week, if the client decides quickly on furniture and other aesthetic elements that are immediately available.
Aside from size and scope of the project, many variables may influence its duration: How long does it take for plans to be approved by the client, for permits to be approved by the city, for materials to arrive, and for contractors to finish their work. A single interior design project such as a kitchen remodel might take a few months, whereas a home remodel project could take six to eight months or more.

Does interior design require special schooling?

Yes, interior design requires special schooling. The requirements vary by state, but most states require that interior designers pass the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam to obtain a license. Prior to sitting the exam, aspiring interior designers get a degree -- usually in Interior Design or Interior Architecture—at an accredited higher education institution. Most of them also complete one or more internships in the field.
Interior designers are required to continually update their skill set, completing a state-mandated number of Continuing Education Units each year.

How much do interior designers charge?

Interior designers charge a broad range of prices, according to the scope of the project and the arrangement they have with the client. Some designers might charge a consultation fee by the hour– for example, $100 an hour (often with a minimum). Designers might charge as little as $60 per hour or as much as $500 per hour. Higher rates can be expected if they are working on major luxury residential developments or commercial projects. However, a flat consultation rate is many people’s preferred way to hire an interior designer or decorator, because, with this system, both parties are clear on the rate, expected hours, and deliverables. Flat rates for interior design can start at $200 for a room, and go up to $1,000 or more.

What is the difference between an interior designer and decorator?

Interior designers have obtained a license, which requires passing the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam. Before sitting this exam, aspiring interior designers complete a four -year degree program at an accredited university or college.
Because of their certification and specialized training, interior designers are often tapped to work with contractors and architects from the very outset of a new development or remodel project, determining functionality of the raw space. The interior designer for a development will usually be the one to design floor plans, decide where to place interior walls, and work with contractors. They often work on commercial projects.
Interior decorators are specifically focused on the visual impression and aesthetics of a space: furnishings, color schemes, choosing art and accents, etc. They work on residential projects only. Interior decorators are not required to have formal training or a license, and they are not government-regulated.
Interior designers sometimes also perform the duties of interior decorator. However, decorators cannot fill the role of an interior designer.

My husband and I had hired Linda to do window treatments, and they turned out better than we had hoped for. She was professional, knowledgeable, and had a lot of wonderful ideas. We look forward to working with her in the future.